As the Latino vote markedly impacted President Obama’s re-election, it simultaneously drew attention to policy changes highly important to Latinos—especially immigration. Both media outlets and politicians cite shocking numbers: 70 percent of the 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. are Latino; 1.5 million were deported under Obama’s first administration; and more than 500,000 were granted approval for deferred action to prove the need for changes in immigration policy.
This undeniable strength in numbers that brought immigrants into the mainstream discourse and political arena has overshadowed the personal narratives behind undocumented immigrants and their families. Regardless of whether immigration reform passes in the coming months, the trail of 20 years of extreme anti-immigrant policies cannot be erased.
El Tecolote has a long history and dedication to community-driven stories, and has decided to open up an UndocuLove column, that will focus on how immigration affects relationships. We promise to respect the privacy of all interviewees whenever requested. These stories will focus on documenting and humanizing perspectives, regardless of how the laws criminalize different immigration statuses. To our undocumented brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers out there, we wish to pass the mic and invite them to reach out to El Tecolote and share their stories.
If you would like to share your story with El Tecolote, you can reach us by email at comments@eltecolote.org. The first story in the UndocuLove series will print in the upcoming May 23 issue.